Troubleshooting Guide for Garage Doors

Even a healthy garage door needs an occasional check-up. Before calling in a technician, homeowners can safely try a few simple troubleshooting steps. These quick checks can resolve minor issues, help you understand what’s going wrong, and prevent unnecessary stress.

 

If anything feels unsafe or you simply want a professional to handle it, Professional Door Fixers is always one call away.

How to Align Your Safety Sensors

Misaligned safety sensors are one of the most common reasons a garage door refuses to close. The good news? It’s usually an easy fix.

 

1. Locate the sensors

They are positioned a few inches above the floor on both sides of the garage door opening.

 

2. Check for blinking lights

A blinking or unlit sensor usually means something is blocking the beam or the sensors aren’t aligned.

 

3. Clear any obstructions

Sweep away dust, leaves, spiderwebs, or debris. Wipe the sensor lenses with a soft cloth.

 

4. Gently adjust the sensors

Loosen the wingnut, point both sensors directly at each other, then tighten the nut again.

You’re looking for solid, steady lights; that indicates alignment.

 

5. Test the door 

Try closing the door. If it still reverses, the wiring or brackets may be damaged.

 

Tip: If the sensors refuse to stay aligned, it’s time to let a professional handle it safely.

How to Tell if Your Garage Door Is Balanced

A balanced door protects your opener from strain and helps prevent premature failure. Testing it takes less than a minute:

 

  • Close the garage door completely.
  • Pull the emergency release cord to disconnect the opener.
  • Manually lift the door halfway.

 

Now check its behavior:

 

  • Stays in place → Your door is balanced.
  • Slams down → Springs are weak.
  • Shoots up → Springs are too strong.

 

Either imbalance means the springs need adjustment, which is never a DIY job, as springs hold extreme tension. Only trained technicians should handle them.

How Often Should You Lubricate Your Garage Door?

Here’s a simple rule of thumb:

  • Lubricate every 6 months (or every 3 months if your door gets heavy daily use).
  • Use a non-silicone, garage-door-specific spray — not WD-40.
  • Apply a light coat to:
  • Hinges
  • Rollers (avoid plastic rollers)
  • Springs
  • Bearing plates
  • The opener rail (lightly — don’t overdo it)
  • Wipe away any drips to avoid attracting dirt.

If lubrication doesn’t fix a noisy or jerky door, something else is going on — and that’s where a tech can save you a headache.

Should I Get Annual Maintenance?

Short answer: Yes. It truly does pay for itself.

 

Garage doors are the largest moving system in your home, and they can rack up hundreds of cycles every month. Annual maintenance keeps things safe, smooth, and reliable.

 

Here’s what yearly maintenance gives you:

  • Longer lifespan for springs, rollers, and the opener
  • Early detection of worn or failing parts
  • Quieter operation
  • Reduced risk of emergency breakdowns
  • Better safety for your family and property

It’s the same idea as maintaining your HVAC or vehicle — ignore it, and you pay more later. Schedule a quick annual checkup, and your garage door will return the favor all year long.